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The use of computer animation in the analysis of automobile collisions provides a reconstructionist the ability to ‘see’ an object from any perspective and visually depict its movement in three-dimensional space. Although many computer animation programs are currently available, none of these off-the-shelf software and hardware combinations are directed specifically at animating vehicle or occupant motion in conjunction with a collision. Many computer programs, specifically created for modeling vehicle or occupant motion, are available, but these typically do not create visual images with the detail offered in computer animation programs. Analysts can generate the data for computer animation by using collision simulation programs along with computer spreadsheets. Techniques for calculating the data required for computer animation are discussed in this paper.

Scientific visualizations and computer animations are frequently presented to show the results of simulation models or the opinions of a reconstructionist. In these cases it is important to properly document the graphical images being presented. Proper documentation depends somewhat on the methodologies used to produce the images, but every scientific visualization, computer animation, and computer generated image should be documented sufficiently to allow others to duplicate the images. There are also some basic data that should accompany any computer generated images that will reveal the basis of the motion for all primary objects being depicted. This paper presents some basic definitions and outlines the data that is required to document scientific visualizations and computer animations.

Computer animation and its use in the engineering/scientific community are in their infancy. As this visualization tool becomes more widely used and accepted, individual expectations may differ greatly regarding appropriate usage and documentation of an animation. This paper lays the foundation for establishing guidelines for documenting the data and techniques used in producing an animation. The many elements that make up an animation are discussed, along with their importance to the presentation. The ultimate goal, for using the proposed guideline, is to achieve consistency within the engineering / scientific community when evaluating an animation.